Fall Fertilizer Sets Up Spring Planting

Sep 25, 2024


Fall fertilizer application
With this year’s lower crop prices, it’s tempting to forego fall fertilization – but don’t.
Good yields are a byproduct of good crop management, and fertilization is a big component in that. Setting up for good yields is the best defense in any agricultural economy.
 
“You still need to get the bushels off the field – and you want the full yield,” said Rod Gustafson, Federated’s Albertville location manager. “If you cut back on nutrients, it’s difficult to catch up.”
 
Crops need phosphorous (P) and potassium (K), two key nonmobile nutrients. “Applying these two nutrients in the fall [before tillage] spreads out the workload,” said Gustafson. Spring becomes more manageable – you can focus on planting (and nitrogen applications).
 
Additionally, P and K can be more plant available in the spring following fall application.
 
Fall fertilizer pricing is typically better than prices in the spring (though there’s no guarantee).
 
Fall fertilizer and lime applications (see building blocks article) allow Federated to help you make the most of your time and investments. Your Federated Agronomists are ready to answer your fall fertilizer questions.
 

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